As pandemic restrictions ease, California's public schools are starting to welcome students back to classrooms for in-person instruction. But many Californians are questioning why it didn't happen sooner.

Guest: Tony Thurmond, State Superintendent of Public Instruction

According to a recent report, the rate of overdose deaths tied to synthetic opioids like fentanyl has risen by more than 500% over the last three years in California. The study's authors said overdose deaths have been on the rise in California since 2015.

Reporter: Holly J. McDede, KQED 

In the debate over criminal justice policies and reforms, the desires of crime victims and survivors are often invoked. But as California rethinks many of the tough on crime laws that led to record incarceration, those survivors don’t always speak with one voice. 

Reporter: Marisa Lagos, KQED

Along California’s coastline, there’s only one state beach where people are permitted to drive on the sand - Oceano Dunes in San Luis Obispo County. But the California Coastal Commission is banning off-roading there.

Reporter: Benjamin Gottlieb, KCRW

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